Los Cabos experiences flooding and tourism industry disputes

The Los Cabos region in Baja California, Mexico, is facing dual challenges involving extreme weather and economic tension within its tourism sector.

Heavy rainfall on Tuesday, 27 October, caused significant flooding in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Downpours totaling 60 millimeters (2.4 inches) swept away vehicles and forced emergency rescues. In response to the weather, authorities closed schools in both towns on Wednesday, 28 October. While no fatalities have been officially reported, the exact number of injuries and rescues remains unconfirmed by local authorities.

Simultaneously, maritime operators in Cabo San Lucas are protesting proposed increases in port service charges managed by the National Port System Administration (ASIPONA). Operators claim that certain fees could rise by 200% to 500% depending on vessel category, sparking fears that higher costs will impact fishing charters and small marine tourism businesses. These protests occurred alongside the Bisbee’s Black & Blue tournament, which recently awarded a record US$5.6 million in prizes.